

Business First Magazine - Spring 2024
Welcome to the Spring 24 edition of our Business First magazine.


Positive Action not Positive Discrimination
People often talk about how certain groups are under-represented within workforces, but what steps can an employer take to redress this? Head of Employment Law at Banner Jones Solicitors, Katie Ash, discusses how employers can use a Positive Action approach to eliminate or reduce discrimination and help these groups access employment or training as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.


New transparency rules to keep companies squeaky clean
Company directors, people with significant control of a company, or anyone who files on behalf of a company, must ensure they comply with new transparency rules from March 2024.


An Office Romance – Should a relationship at work be disclosed?
Disclosing a relationship at work depends on various factors, including company policies, the working environment, and the nature of the relationship. Sara Patel, Employment Law Specialist at Banner Jones, explains some considerations to help employees and employers navigate what can sometimes be a complex situation.


Innocent banter or workplace discrimination?
Workplace banter is driving a surge in claims against employers with research showing that 66 claimes relating to banter were heard in employment tribunals in 2022.


Minimum wage changes – is your business ready?
The Government has announced new National Minimum Wage rates for 2025, including the National Living Wage. The new rates which will come into force from 1 April 2025 - is your business ready?


Moving out of the marital home? Your rights uncovered
In this article we help to bust one of the most common family law myths, and provide advice on how to proceed if you wish to move out of the matrimonial home.


Selling a Business - A Complete Guide
There are many factors to consider when selling a business and it isn’t something that should be entered into lightly. Our free guide runs through some of the important considerations this involves.


Relationship breakdown – can mediation help?
As of 29 April 2024, it is now mandatory for the majority of separating or divorcing couples to first attempt non-court dispute resolution methods (like mediation) to address child arrangements and financial matters.


Employment Law - Changes employers need to be aware of
As we enter 2024, we’ve been reflecting on some of the significant changes in employment law we have seen over the course of 2023 which employers need to be aware of. These include amendments to the flexible working regime, further deliberations about employment status by the Supreme Court and considerable changes to the calculation of holiday pay. 2024 looks set to be a big year for change in employment law, so here we have done a roundup of key developments in 2023 and have highlighted the ‘ones to watch’ in 2024.


The Importance of Prenuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements for Business Owners
Here, our Head of Family Law, Kelly Parks explains why business owners should consider a pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreement.
The intertwining of relationships and financial assets can be a complex and delicate balance. As individuals embark on the journey of building a life together, it is crucial to consider the potential impact on the business if the relationship were to end.


Estate Planning for Business Owners – what should you consider?
Estate planning for business owners is a critical process that includes planning for the transfer of your assets and the management of your business in the event of your retirement, death or incapacity. Here are some essential steps and considerations for business owners when it comes to estate planning.


Commercial Property - A Complete Guide
This guide will help you understand what to look for in finding and buying the ideal commercial premises for your needs.


Changes to Flexible Working regulations
New regulations extending flexible working rights were put before Parliament on 11th December 2023. From the 6th April 2024, these new regulations came into force and all employees will no longer need to have 26 weeks’ continuous employment in order to make a flexible working request.


Online Divorce - Advice, Pros and Cons
Take a look at our advice and the pros and cons of Online Divorce. We are here for you every step of the way and can help finalise financial and childcare arrangements.